Posts Tagged ‘children safety’

School is starting, and Labor Day is fast approaching. However, there’s still time to squeeze a little fun and sun out of what’s left of the summer. Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your last few weeks of summer fun healthy and safe:

Heat and Hydration

Streams and lakes are a great way to cool off, but that doesn’t mean they’re safe to drink. Parasites can hide in even clear water. Drink safely by either treating or filtering the water first. Otherwise, stick to bottled.

Avoid heat-related illness by drinking more than you think you need and, to replace lost salt from sweat, enjoy juices, sports drinks, or coconut water.

If you feel you are starting to suffer from the heat, try to move to a shady/air-conditioned location, take a cool shower, and do some light stretching to avoid cramps. If you’re not feeling better after half an hour, seek medical attention. If your symptoms are severe, don’t wait. Dial 911 immediately.

Getting Wet

Drowning is the 2nd leading cause of injury-related death among children under 15 (CDC). To maintain safety, follow pool rules and stay in close proximity to young children. If on the beach, pay attention to lifeguard settings and encourage children to stay nearby. Pair older kids with younger ones when possible, and never let your child swim alone. You can take the pool safety pledge here.

Always wear a life jacket when aboard a boat. There are life jackets for every age and activity; you can even buy them for your beloved dog.

Keep your pool (or the public pool) germ free by showering before swimming, washing hands, and avoiding the pool when your stomach is upset.

Sun Safety

Try to avoid being right in the sun between the hours of 10am and 2pm.